So for 52 days, the Gaylord National Resort (201 Waterfront St., Oxon Hill, Md.) at the National Harbor is hosting an icy wonderland for the holidays.

Starting Friday, Nov. 18, the hotel will celebrate a DreamWorks-themed Christmas on the Potomac, about 10 miles directly south of downtown D.C. Expect gingerbread decorating, interactive character meals featuring DreamWorks characters from "Shrek," "Kung Fu Panda" and "Madagascar," meet-and-greets, and DreamWorks-themed scavenger hunts.

ICE! is also back at the hotel this year, with a Merry Madagascar theme. Two million pounds of ice has been sculpted into Christmas icons, holiday scenes and the animals of the "Madagascar" movies. The ice is held at a chilly nine degrees. Winter coats will be provided if you don't bring your own.

The ice displays are open daily from Nov. 18 to Jan. 8. Tickets start at $25 for adults and $20 for kids ages 4-12.